Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier (Virago Modern Classics)

Description

“Rebecca” is a Gothic novel written by Daphne du Maurier, first published in 1938. The story is narrated by an unnamed young woman who becomes the second wife of a wealthy widower, Maxim de Winter. The novel is set in Manderley, the de Winter family estate on the windswept coast of Cornwall, England.

The plot unfolds as the narrator, a naïve and inexperienced companion to a wealthy American woman, meets Maxim de Winter while vacationing in Monte Carlo. Despite their differing social statuses, they fall in love and quickly marry. However, when they return to Manderley, the narrator finds herself overshadowed by the memory of Maxim’s first wife, Rebecca, who died under mysterious circumstances. The grandeur of Manderley and the weight of Rebecca’s legacy create an oppressive atmosphere for the new Mrs. de Winter.

As the narrator tries to navigate her new role as mistress of Manderley, she discovers dark secrets about Rebecca’s life and death, and begins to unravel the truth behind the facade of the de Winter household. The novel is characterized by its suspenseful plot, atmospheric setting, and complex characters, particularly the sinister housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers, who remains fiercely loyal to Rebecca’s memory.

“Rebecca” is celebrated for its atmospheric prose, psychological depth, and exploration of themes such as identity, jealousy, and the power dynamics within marriage. It has been adapted into numerous film, television, and stage adaptations, including the acclaimed 1940 film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The novel’s enduring popularity continues to captivate readers with its blend of romance, mystery, and psychological drama.